USCG Exam PracticeElectrical fundamentals — DC/AC, motors, distribution
Which characteristic distinguishes alternating current (AC) from direct current (DC)?
- A. AC flows in one direction at a steady value, while DC periodically reverses direction.
- ✓ AC periodically reverses direction and continuously changes in amplitude, while DC flows in one direction at a steady value.Correct
- C. AC can only be produced by a commutator-equipped machine, while DC is produced by an alternator.
- D. AC requires a commutator to maintain unidirectional flow, while DC does not.
Why B is correct
AC periodically reverses direction and continuously changes in amplitude; DC flows in one direction at a steady value. The commutator is a DC machine component, not an AC one. NEETS Mod. 2 §1-1.
Cited:NEETS Mod. 2 §1-1